Howard eyeing top-four finish

Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard is refusing to give up on

Champions League qualification this season.

The Toffees have picked up back-to-back wins over Manchester

City and Stoke City and are just four points behind Chelsea in

fourth place.

Howard admits Everton will need a bit of luck but insists they

intend to push their rivals to the finish.

“We are right there, we are breathing heavy down a few people’s

necks,” said the United States international.

“We need a little bit of luck for those around us to drop

points. But maybe we are in a position to make our own luck. People

say it’s daunting but it’s an opportunity for us.”

Howard returned to the side for the victory over the Potters

following a back injury, while Phil Jagielka had a pain-killing

injection to play and the keeper feels this shows the desire of the

team.

“That is just the trust level and passion we have,” added

Howard.

“At other clubs you might get certain guys saying ‘I will take

another week and then come back’. But for me and Jags that never

came into it – we love to pull on the shirt.”